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Breast Reconstruction in Millsboro, DE
Breast Reconstruction Surgery
Breast reconstruction is a specialized area of plastic surgery focused on rebuilding or reshaping the breast following a lumpectomy or mastectomy. It may also involve procedures that restore symmetry between breasts or correct congenital breast anomalies. Whether due to breast cancer treatment or another medical condition, reconstructive breast surgery helps patients regain confidence, body balance, and comfort.
At Peninsula Plastic Surgery in Millsboro, DE, Dr. Perrotta, Dr. Luppens, and Dr. Kerestes are highly experienced in breast reconstruction surgery, offering both implant-based and tissue-based techniques. Their goal is to create natural-looking, symmetrical, and soft breast contours that feel authentic and restore a patient’s sense of self.
Goals of Breast Reconstruction
- Create natural-looking breasts
- Restore symmetry between both breasts
- Achieve softness and contour with a natural feel
Whether you’re seeking breast reconstruction after mastectomy or improvement following lumpectomy or radiation therapy, our surgical team is here to help guide your journey with compassion and clinical expertise.
Candidates for Breast Reconstruction
You may be a strong candidate for surgical reconstruction of the breast if you:
- Are scheduled for lumpectomy or mastectomy and wish to undergo immediate reconstruction
- Have previously undergone mastectomy for breast cancer
- Experience breast deformity or size discrepancies after radiation therapy
- Have had surgery for fibrocystic disease
- Are undergoing prophylactic mastectomy due to a high genetic risk of breast cancer
- Are considering nipple-sparing mastectomy as a preventative or therapeutic procedure
- Have a congenital or acquired breast abnormality
JUMP TO SECTIONS
- Jump to Breast Reconstruction
- Jump to Nipple Reconstruction
- Jump to Nipple-Sparing Mastectomy
What to Expect at Your Consultation
During your consultation, Dr. Perrotta, Dr. Luppens, or Dr. Kerestes will perform a physical exam and discuss your goals and medical history. They will provide tailored recommendations and walk you through your options, whether you’re considering DIEP flap breast reconstruction, implant-based surgery, or another approach.
An aesthetic coordinator will provide a detailed, transparent quote outlining the total cost of your proposed procedure. At this time, a pre-op appointment will be scheduled.
Pre-Op Visit
During your pre-operative visit, the following will be completed:
- Pre-op photographs
- Final medical review and physical exam
- Detailed surgical explanation including techniques and risks
- Final consent paperwork and payment
You will also receive your surgery arrival instructions 24 hours before the procedure.
The Breast Reconstruction Surgery
Our surgeons perform various breast reconstruction procedures based on your needs and body type:
Implant-Based Reconstruction
This method involves the placement of a tissue expander at the time of mastectomy or at a later date. It takes several weeks for the expander to gradually fill with saline until the skin becomes large enough to accommodate a breast implant. Once expansion is complete, the expander is replaced with a permanent saline or silicone implant.
TRAM Flap Reconstruction
This technique uses skin, fat, and muscle from the lower abdomen to form the new breast, often creating a result that looks and feels very natural. A bonus is the tighter, flatter abdominal profile—similar to a tummy tuck.
Latissimus Dorsi Flap Reconstruction
This approach involves transferring muscle and skin from the upper back to the chest, often in combination with a breast implant. It provides excellent coverage and shape but leaves a noticeable scar on the back.
DIEP Flap and Perforator Flap Techniques
These advanced microsurgical techniques use skin and fat without sacrificing muscle, allowing for natural results and a shorter recovery for certain patients.
Following reconstruction, most patients choose to undergo nipple reconstruction for improved aesthetic results.
Post-Op Recovery
Recovery time depends on the chosen reconstruction technique. For implant-based reconstruction, many patients can return to work within 2 weeks. More extensive procedures like TRAM or latissimus dorsi flap reconstructions typically require 4–6 weeks of recovery.
Our team closely monitors your healing progress, and we offer complimentary annual follow-up visits to assess implant position and address concerns such as capsular contracture.
FAQ’s
Who is a good candidate for breast reconstruction surgery?
Breast Reconstruction Surgery is commonly recommended for women who have undergone or plan to undergo a mastectomy or lumpectomy. This procedure is ideal for those seeking to restore breast shape, symmetry, and a sense of normalcy following breast cancer treatment.
When will I see the results of breast reconstruction surgery?
Initial changes in breast contour and shape are visible shortly after Breast Reconstruction Surgery. However, the full, final results typically develop over several months as swelling decreases and tissues fully heal.
How long do the results of breast reconstruction surgery last?
The outcomes of Breast Reconstruction Surgery are generally long-lasting with proper care. While the reconstructed breast will age naturally over time, some patients may choose to undergo revision procedures in the future to maintain symmetry or address changes.
What should I do before and after breast reconstruction surgery?
Before Breast Reconstruction Surgery, follow all pre-surgical instructions provided by your surgeon, including medication guidelines and fasting requirements. After surgery, attend all follow-up appointments, care for your incisions as directed, and allow your body the necessary time to heal for the best results.
Is there any downtime or side effects after breast reconstruction surgery?
Yes, some downtime is expected following Breast Reconstruction Surgery. Common side effects include swelling, bruising, and post-operative discomfort, which usually subside within a few weeks. Your recovery time may vary based on the specific technique used and whether the surgery was performed in one or multiple stages.
What can I expect from breast reconstruction surgery?
You can expect restored breast contours, improved body symmetry, and a renewed sense of self-confidence after Breast Reconstruction Surgery. The procedure is designed not only to enhance physical appearance but also to support emotional healing following a breast cancer journey.
Nipple Reconstruction
Candidates for Nipple Reconstruction
Nipple reconstruction is often the final step in the breast reconstruction process, providing a more natural and complete appearance. You may be a candidate if:
- You have lost one or both nipples due to mastectomy or trauma
- You have inverted nipples that you would like corrected
- You have enlarged nipples that are disproportionate to the breast
- You’ve completed the primary mastectomy breast reconstruction and are ready for final-stage refinement
What to Expect at Your Consultation
During your consultation at Peninsula Plastic Surgery in Millsboro, DE, Dr. Perrotta, Dr. Luppens, or Dr. Kerestes will discuss your aesthetic goals and determine the best technique for your nipple reconstruction. After a focused physical exam, your surgeon will outline your options and make personalized recommendations.
An aesthetic coordinator will then provide a written quote detailing the complete cost, and a pre-op appointment will be scheduled.
Pre-Op Visit
Your pre-operative visit will include:
- Clinical photographs for documentation
- A full medical history review
- A final physical exam and consent process
- Surgical instructions and timeline review
- Payment completion and procedure scheduling
You’ll receive a call with arrival instructions 24 hours before your surgery.
The Nipple Reconstruction Procedure
Nipple reconstruction is typically performed under local anesthesia, although IV sedation or general anesthesia is available if desired.
- If reconstructing the nipple mound, your surgeon will raise small skin flaps and mold them into a raised projection resembling a natural nipple.
- For the areola, options include medical-grade tattooing or using a skin graft from a pigmented area of the body.
- In cases of inverted nipples, the surgeon will release fibrous bands causing the inversion and create internal support to maintain projection.
- If reducing a large nipple, a wedge of tissue may be removed to achieve the desired size and symmetry.
These procedures are typically outpatient and involve minimal recovery.
Post-Op Recovery
Discomfort is usually mild and managed easily with oral medication. Most patients return to daily activities within 24–48 hours.
- Stitches are removed within 4 to 14 days
- Tattoo pigment and skin healing will continue to improve in the following weeks
- Follow-up appointments ensure the desired symmetry and healing outcomes are achieved
Nipple-Sparing Mastectomy (NSM)
Nipple-sparing mastectomy (NSM) is a surgical procedure in which the breast tissue is removed while preserving the patient’s natural nipples and areola. This approach is often combined with immediate breast reconstruction after mastectomy, using either a tissue expander or a permanent implant. NSM offers an exceptional cosmetic outcome by maintaining the natural appearance of the breast, making it a preferred choice for women at high risk of breast cancer or those managing chronic conditions like fibrocystic disease.
Public awareness of NSM grew significantly after actress Angelina Jolie shared her decision to undergo bilateral nipple-sparing mastectomy due to a BRCA1 gene mutation and a strong family history of breast cancer. The procedure has since gained popularity, particularly among women seeking to proactively reduce cancer risk or relieve painful, cyclical symptoms associated with fibrocystic changes. While the nipples are preserved, patients should be aware that they may lose normal function, including sensation and the ability to become erect or lactate. Revision surgeries may also be necessary over time.
At Peninsula Plastic Surgery in Millsboro, DE, Dr. Perrotta, Dr. Luppens, and Dr. Kerestes are highly experienced breast reconstruction surgeons who specialize in NSM. Patients are offered compassionate care and outstanding aesthetic results by developing a customized plan with them. For many women, the ability to preserve their natural nipple appearance while addressing serious health concerns makes NSM a transformative and empowering choice.
Goals of NSM and Implant Breast Reconstruction
- Prevent high-risk patients from developing breast cancer
- To remove cancerous tissue while preserving natural breast aesthetics
- To relieve symptoms associated with severe fibrocystic disease
- To maintain the nipple-areola complex for natural appearance
Candidates for NSM and Implant Breast Reconstruction
You may be a candidate if you:
- Have a strong family history or genetic predisposition (e.g., BRCA mutation)
- Are undergoing prophylactic mastectomy to lower cancer risk
- Have non-invasive or localized breast cancer
- Suffer from fibrocystic breast disease that causes pain and lumpiness
- Are seeking a preventive but aesthetic option for breast tissue removal
What to Expect at Your Consultation
During your private consultation, your surgeon will review your medical history, family risk factors, and current breast condition. If NSM is appropriate, they will walk you through the entire process, including implant options and breast reconstruction procedures.
Your aesthetic coordinator will provide a detailed quote and schedule your pre-op appointment.
Pre-Op Visit
Your visit will include:
- Pre-surgical photography
- In-depth explanation of the NSM and reconstruction plan
- Final physical assessment
- Medical clearance and informed consents
- Payment processing and surgery time coordination
The NSM Procedure
NSM with immediate reconstruction is typically performed in one operative session. The breast surgeon removes the underlying tissue while preserving the nipple and skin envelope. Then, the plastic surgeon reconstructs the breast using an implant or expander.
This combined procedure delivers the benefits of risk reduction or cancer treatment with aesthetically pleasing outcomes.
Post-Op Recovery
Post-surgical discomfort varies based on the complexity of the procedure.
- Expect moderate to significant discomfort for the first few days
- A patient can typically return to work in two to three weeks after surgery
- Fat grafting may be performed several months later to improve contour and coverage over the implant
- While the nipple is preserved, sensation and function may be permanently reduced
In follow-up appointments, your surgeon will monitor healing and determine whether you need revisions or fat grafting.
Take the first step to becoming the best version of yourself.
In downtown Salisbury, Maryland, conveniently located 2 hours outside of Baltimore & Philadelphia is the main office of Peninsula Plastic Surgery, a truly comprehensive plastic surgery center.
Contact US
This form should not be used in the event of an emergency, please call 410-546-0464 for the physician on call or dial 911.
Salisbury
- 314 W. Carroll St. Ste #1
Salisbury, MD 21801 - Phone: 410-546-0464
- Fax: 410-546-8529
Millsboro
- 30265 Commerce Dr. Ste #208
Millsboro, DE 19966 - Phone: 302-663-0119
- Fax: 302-663-0120
Berlin
- 124 N. Main St. Ste B
Berlin, MD 21811 - Phone: 410-449-3993
- Fax: 410-449-3992
